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Identifying Lead Hazards Lead -based paint is usually not a hazard if it is in good condition, and it is not on an Lead from impact or friction surface, like a window. It paint chips, is defined by the federal government as which you paint with lead levels greater than or equal can See, and to 1.0 milligram per square centimeter, or more than 0.5% by weight. lead dust, Deteriorating lead -based paint (peeling, which you chipping, chalking, cracking or damaged) can't always is a hazard and needs immediate attention. see, can both It may also be a hazard when found on sur- be serious faces that children can chew or that get a hazards. lot of wear -and -tear, such as: ♦ Windows and window sills. ♦ Doors and door frames. ♦ Stairs, railings, banisters, and porches. Lead dust can form when lead -based paint is scraped, sanded, or heated. Dust also forms when painted surfaces bump or rub togeth- er. Lead chips and dust can get on surfaces and objects that people touch. Settled lead dust can re-enter the air when people vacuum, sweep, or walk through it. The following two federal standards have been set for lead hazards in dust: ♦ 40 micrograms per square foot (pg/ft2) and higher for floors, including carpeted floors. ♦ 250 µg/ft2 and higher for interior window sills. Lead in soil can be a hazard when children play in bare soil or when people bring soil into the house on their shoes. The following two federal standards have been set for lead hazards in residential soil: ♦ 400 parts per million (ppm) and higher in play areas of bare soil ♦ 1,200 ppm (average) and higher in bare soil in the remainder of the yard. The only way to find out if paint, dust and soil lead hazards exist is to test for them. The next page describes the most common meth- ods used.